A gas fireplace is an ideal way to add warmth, comfort, and ambiance to your home without the hassle of a wood-burning fireplace. Though your gas fireplace is pretty easy to care for, there are some steps you should be taking, and this is the perfect time of year to do it.
#1: Daily Attention Is Not Necessary
If you had a fireplace that used wood as fuel, there would be daily upkeep required, particularly emptying ashes and hauling wood into your house. Your gas fireplace simply does not need any care on a daily basis.
#2: Regular Cleaning Makes a Difference
Your owner’s manual contains instructions for completing some basic cleaning, so consult that and only take the steps it suggests. If you do not have your owner’s manual, reach out to us to try to get a replacement manual or to have your questions answered.
#3: Keep Everyone Safe
Before cleaning your gas fireplace or handling any part of it, including the glass, make sure it is turned completely off—including the pilot light—and has had plenty of time to cool down. Keep small children away from the fireplace, and instruct older ones clearly to keep their distance and not touch the fireplace, even if they think it is off.
#4: Have the Chimney Cleaned Every Year
It’s very easy for obstructions to occur over the months when the fireplace is not in use. Birds and squirrels sometimes build nests in chimneys, and other items such as tree branches can be blown in. This can lead to the smoke being unable to safely vent, and carbon monoxide could accumulate in your home, which is extremely dangerous.
#5: Have Annual Maintenance Done
Your technician will clean and inspect all components, including the burner, pilot hood and orifice, igniter, flame sensor, firebox, and blower fan. The glass, logs, and lava rocks will be checked for any cracking or damage. Gas fittings will be scrutinized to ensure that there are no leaks. Electrical components will be tested, including the thermopile, thermocouple, thermostat, and all wiring and connections. And your carbon monoxide detector will be tested to make sure that if a problem does occur later with your gas fireplace, it will not pose a health risk to you or your family.
#6: Get Repairs Promptly When Necessary
At the first sign of a problem with your fireplace, get gas fireplace repair in Union, NJ. Pilot light issues, the fireplace turning itself off and on, smoke, cracks in the glass or elsewhere, white stains on the masonry, or any smells such as burning or rotten eggs indicate that repairs are necessary. In the case of a rotten egg smell, which indicates a gas leak, turn the fireplace and pilot light off and get emergency repairs.
Established in 1912, Max Sr & Paul Schoenwalder Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, A Corp. is your trusted resource for reliable gas fireplace installation, maintenance, and repair. Reach out to us today.